ANGRY residents have come face-to-face with the teenage gangs they accuse of terrorising them.

Now both sides have at last agreed to work together to find a solution.

The "ceasefire" comes after what residents in St Andrew's Street, Radcliffe, claim has been a three-year campaign of misery, vandalism, fear and harassment by gangs of up to 70 thugs.

Now a committee of residents and young people is to be formed to address the problems.

About 50 residents and 30 youngsters packed St Andrew's CE Primary School for what was at times an angry debate.

One furious victim of the teen gangs said: "Why aren't the police doing something? We need a police presence. The youngsters say they are bored and have nothing to do. Many of my generation were in the same boat, but we didn't go round vandalising property and causing annoyance."

Insp Nigel Bonson explained that police could take action only if there was evidence of offences having been committed, and he pointed out the difficulties caused by short staffing.

The resident replied: "We'll pass the hat round if that's what it takes. The community will buy a copper."

At times tempers flared, prompting Insp Bonson to remind those present that the purpose of the meeting was to find a p

The youngsters strongly denied accusations of under-age drinking and causing havoc, blaming other gangs instead.

This was met with cries of derision by many householders.

Alex Joyce (17) of Richmond Walk, said: "We need people to support us, too.

"Whispering about us and constant criticisms do nothing except provoke resentment."

Speaking after the meeting, he said: "It was a waste of time. As soon as any young person spoke up, they were shouted down."

"We do not deny that there are congregations of youths around the St Andrew's Street area which may possibly appear as a threat to local residents, but we object to being branded as criminals and roughs, because we are not."

Youth worker Mrs Dot Moore said: "I think the young people were attacked tonight. Unless there is some co-operation there is never going to be a solution."

Insp Bonson and Coun Barry Briggs, who chaired the meeting, were more optimistic.

"I thought it was a useful first step and it was encouraging as there is now a core of people from the community prepared to work together," said Insp Bonson.

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